Patient confidentiality and consent

Confidentiality

All members of our practice team are bound by strict rules of confidentiality that apply to all aspects of their work. The practice is computerised and is registered under the Data Protection Act. You can be sure that anything you discuss with any member of this practice – family doctor, nurse or receptionist – will stay confidential. Even if you are aged under 16, nothing will be said to anyone – including parents, other family members, care workers or tutors – without your permission.

The only reason why we might have to consider passing on confidential information without your permission, would be to protect you or someone else from serious harm. We would always try to discuss this with you first.

If you are being treated elsewhere it is best if you allow the doctor or nurse to inform the practice of any treatment you are receiving. If you have any worries about confidentiality, please feel free to ask a member of staff.

The Care Record Guarantee is a form of charter which explains in plain English the commitments that the NHS must make in processing patient information in accordance with good Information Governance practice.

It sets out 12 clear commitments to our patients, covering confidentiality and data protection, accuracy of records and the security measures that need to be in place.To read a copy, click here: Care Record Guarantee.pdf

Consent

Where possible, a clinician must be satisfied that a patient understands and consents to a proposed treatment, immunisation or investigation. This will include the nature, purpose, and risks of the procedure, if necessary by the use of drawings, interpreters, videos or other means to ensure that the patient understands, and has enough information to give ‘Informed Consent’

Note to Patient: The doctor should explain the proposed treatment and any alternatives. You can ask questions and seek further information. You have the right to refuse this treatment. You may ask for a relative, friend or nurse to be present.